Chinese authorities say they are shocked and strongly dissatisfied with the remarks of Philippine President Benigno Aquino, who compared China to Nazi Germany while making a speech in Japan.
Aquino's Remarks on Sea Disputes Ridiculous: FM Spokesperson
Aquino was commenting on the two countries' territorial disputes in the South China Sea when he made the unflattering comparison, and called on the United States to play a role in stopping China's rising might.
Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying asserts the Philippines is colluding with countries from outside the region and smearing China for its own interests.
"I have also noticed these reports. I am deeply shocked at the absurd and unreasonable remarks by the Philippine leader and express my strong dissatisfaction and opposition. A review of the unfolding of the South China Sea disputes tells us it is the Philippines that has been illegally occupying some islets of China's Nansha Islands by force since the 1990s."
Aquino is currently on a visit to Japan.
He is expected to meet with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe later on today, with the topic of the South China Sea reportedly on the table.
Hua Chunying warns the Philippines to stop its provocations and go back to the right track of negotiation and consultation.
Hua also commented on recent remarks from the United States and Japan, which accuse China of violating international law with its island-building activities in the South China Sea.
"What international law forbids China to conduct reasonable construction on its own islands and reefs? What law allows close reconnaissance by warships and planes of another country's islands and reefs? What law allows the infringement of sovereignty and legitimate rights and interests in the name of freedom of navigation?"
US President Barack Obama said on Monday that China should not be "throwing elbows" in the region, while Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga also said China should abide by international norms.
Hua added that there comment are double-standard and are made with ulterior motives.
